Is It Safe For Dogs To Fly In Cargo ?
With more and more pet parents seeking to take their dogs on vacation or for relocation, one question frequently arises: Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo? Unfortunately, the answer is a resounding no.
Statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) show that in 2022 alone, over 500 pet incidents were reported during air travel. A significant portion of them are related to animal transportation in cargo holds. These incidents range from injuries and illnesses to, in the worst cases, fatalities.
In this blog, we will discuss in detail why it is unsafe for dogs to fly in cargo and help you find a better alternative to ensure a safer and more enjoyable flying experience for your dog.
Dangers Of Cargo Holds For Dogs
For those looking for an answer to the question – is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo, let’s take a look at the dangers associated with flying dogs in cargo holds:
Temperature Extremes: The flight cargo areas are not always temperature-controlled, especially during ground handling. As a result, your dog may often be exposed to dangerously high or low temperatures.
The extreme heat can sometimes lead to heatstroke in dogs, a potentially fatal condition characterized by rapid breathing, excessive panting, vomiting and seizures. On the other hand, in extremely low temperatures, dogs can suffer from hypothermia, which can cause lethargy, muscle stiffness and even death in some cases.
Noise and Stress: Flights make terrible noises, often accompanied by shaking, which can be pretty stressful for dogs, especially when they are alone inside a crate in the cargo hold. They are confined in a dark, unfamiliar space with loud, unfamiliar sounds, which may trigger anxiety and panting and can worsen any existing medical conditions, like heart disease.
Improper Handling: Cargo holds are busy areas with limited visibility for airline personnel. This increases the risk of mishandling, which results in injuries like broken bones or sprains in dogs. Also, locking your dog inside the cargo, with limited access to water and improper waste removal, creates an unhealthy environment.
Limited Access: When your dog travels in cargo, you cannot check their well-being during the flight. This lack of control can be incredibly stressful for you and your pet.
Safety Regulations: Not Enough For Dog’s Well-Being
While regulations exist for transporting pets in cargo, they mainly focus on crate size and ventilation requirements, offering limited protection for your dog’s overall well-being. These regulations are primarily designed to ensure basic survival, not considering comfort or the stress it causes in dogs.
Presenting A Superior Alternative For Pet Transport
If you have been typing on Google, “Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?” and are worried about your pooch’s well-being, you’ll be glad to know that there is a far more comfortable and humane way for dog transport that you can choose.
Many reputable pet transport companies in the US (like ours) provide a safe dog transport service without burning a hole in your pocket. These companies assign a dedicated travel assistant for your pet who will fly with them in a cabin and take utmost care of them during the entire flight, ensuring they stay safe and comfortable throughout the journey.
Here’s How These Pet Transport Companies Can Make A World Of Difference For Your Furry Friend:
For those troubled with the thought ‘is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?’ before planning their vacation with their beloved pet, choosing professionals for pet transport offers many benefits, such as:
Personalized Care
Domestic and international pet transport companies designate a personal pet nanny for each pet. The nanny is responsible for escorting the pet and showering it with constant love and attention, caring for its every need during the flight. This personalized attention helps reduce anxiety and ensures your dog feels safe and secure throughout the journey.
Temperature Control
These pet nannies will travel with your dog not inside the cargo but in the passenger cabin. The pressurized and temperature-controlled cabin environment ensures your dog’s comfort throughout the trip. When you choose these services, you won’t have to worry about how your dog copes with extreme temperatures. You can rest assured that your dog will be cared for by professionals who are experienced in this task.
Reduced Stress
The presence of a loving pet nanny helps to reduce anxiety and stress levels in dogs. This, in turn, minimizes the risk of anxiety-related health issues, such as vomiting or diarrhoea.
Real-Time Updates
Pet transport companies provide regular updates on your dog’s well-being during the flight with photos and videos. These updates will give you peace of mind and allow you to relax and focus on your journey.
Expert Handling
Experienced nannies are well-trained to handle any situation that might arise during the flight. From offering water and bathroom breaks to calming a nervous pup, they possess the knowledge and are equipped to provide exceptional care during any distress.
Choosing The Right Pet Transport Service: Prioritize Your Dog’s Needs
If you have been wondering, ‘Is it safe for dogs to fly in a cabin?’ and are genuinely concerned about finding a more comfortable way to transport your dog, pet transport services might help you. However, when choosing a pet transport service in the US, pay attention to the following factors, as they can directly impact your dog’s safety and comfort:
Experience And Qualifications
Choose a company that has provided pet transport services for a long time and has qualified pet nannies. For added safety, ensure the nannies are well-trained in animal behaviour, pet CPR, and first aid.
Safety Measures
Don’t settle for just any company that provides an animal shipping service. Find out how they carry out long-distance pet transport—is it inside a cargo hold or in-cabin transportation? Your chosen company should put pets’ needs first and offer in-cabin transport. It should also take proper care of and monitor the pets during the flight, so you don’t have to worry about whether it is safe for dogs to fly in cargo.
Communication
Choose a company with a reputation for excellent communication. They will keep you updated on your dog’s condition throughout the journey. This honest and open communication gives you the confidence to have a great, hassle-free travel experience.
Pet Comfort
Pick a company that values your dog’s comfort and seeks to reduce stress for them during flights. Find a pet nanny with comfy bedding, toys and treats, and other essential amenities to help make the trip more enjoyable for your pup.
Conclusion
Flying your dog in cargo is risky, which is why many pet parents Google ‘Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo’. For a safe and hassle-free experience, choose a pet transport company like ours that offers in-cabin pet transport.
At Flight Nanny QT Pet Transport, we prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort above everything else, ensuring they enjoy the flight rather than feeling lost and anxious. Our in-cabin pet transport service comes with personal pet nannies, offering a far superior alternative to cargo transport. Our team is well equipped to handle any situation during flights, offering pets toys, treats, and affection from time to time and keeping them stress-free and relaxed throughout the journey. Contact us today to learn more about our pet transport services.
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